Sad news Niall Horan lovers. The Mullingar man is reportedly off the market, as the rumour mill is swirling that he's dating Ellie Goulding.

Horan and Goulding have sparked rumours they've struck up a budding romance after they were spotted canoodling during Kings of Leon's performance at V Festival in Chelmsford, Essex, on Sunday night.

Ellie, who called time on her relationship with Jeremy Irvine last month, appeared to be giggling away as Niall threw his arms around her, while bodyguards protected the pair from fans attempting to take photos.

The duo reportedly snuck off early during the band's final track to avoid the masses of fans, before ending the night in the exclusive Mahiki area at the festival for some cocktails where both had been spotted earlier having the banter, according to the Daily Mirror.

Niall previously admitted to having a crush on the 26-year-old singer after claiming that he and his bandmates - Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik - struggle to make time for a relationship because of their busy schedule, telling GQ: 'I'll say one thing: Ellie Goulding - wow. She's absolutely amazing looking.'

The pair shared a mutual love-in on Twitter two months ago when Niall complimented her on her 'beautiful voice', with Niall writing:

Eventually, Ellie spotted the comment, dropped a love heart and Horan replied:

 

Niall spent much of Saturday at the festival relaxing in the Virgin Media Louder Lounge VIP area where he was spotted scoffing pancakes - although the he didn't have any cash to pay for his sweet treat and had to borrow some money from a pal. Too used to getting everything for free Niall?